CVE-2014-8877 in CM Download Manager
Summary
by MITRE
The alterSearchQuery function in lib/controllers/CmdownloadController.php in the CreativeMinds CM Downloads Manager plugin before 2.0.4 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the CMDsearch parameter to cmdownloads/, which is processed by the PHP create_function function.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
The CVE-2014-8877 vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw in the CreativeMinds CM Downloads Manager WordPress plugin affecting versions prior to 2.0.4. This vulnerability resides within the alterSearchQuery function located in the lib/controllers/CmdownloadController.php file, demonstrating a classic security oversight that enables attackers to manipulate plugin functionality through carefully crafted input parameters. The vulnerability specifically targets the cmdownloads/ endpoint and leverages the dangerous PHP create_function construct to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, making it a severe threat to WordPress installations.
The technical exploitation mechanism of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the plugin's search functionality. When an attacker submits a malicious CMDsearch parameter to the cmdownloads/ endpoint, the alterSearchQuery function processes this input without adequate security measures. The use of create_function in PHP creates a dangerous execution environment where attacker-controlled code can be dynamically compiled and executed within the web server context. This function accepts a string containing PHP code and evaluates it at runtime, providing attackers with a direct pathway to execute arbitrary commands on the target server. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes the weakness of executing arbitrary code, and represents a prime example of insecure dynamic code execution practices.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-8877 extends far beyond simple data theft or modification, as successful exploitation grants attackers complete control over affected WordPress installations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, establish backdoors, modify website content, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or prior authentication to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the execution of code through PHP, and represents a significant risk to website owners who may not regularly update their plugins. The attack surface is particularly broad since many WordPress installations continue to run outdated plugin versions, creating numerous potential entry points for malicious actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8877 require immediate action from affected organizations to update to the patched version 2.0.4 or later of the CM Downloads Manager plugin. System administrators should conduct comprehensive audits to identify all installations of the vulnerable plugin and ensure that all WordPress core files and plugins remain current with the latest security patches. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect suspicious traffic patterns associated with exploitation attempts and consider implementing web application firewalls to block known malicious payloads. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and the dangers of using deprecated PHP functions like create_function in production environments, where proper sanitization and parameter validation should be enforced at all levels of application code. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for web server accounts and regular security assessments can help reduce the potential impact of similar vulnerabilities in the future.